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- The idea of atonement interprets Jesus’ death on the cross as a sacrifice that brings us back into relationship with God. In short, “we are saved because of the cross.” The beginnings of this theology are found in New Testament attempts to find meaning in the execution of Jesus as an enemy of the state and one cursed by God.
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The basic idea of Atonement Theology posits that Jesus' death was necessary in some tangible, cosmic way, as a "sacrifice" for the sins of humanity. Further, it suggests that this sacrifice, and this sacrifice alone, is the "salvific" work of Jesus; the moment that Jesus' earthly ministry is complete. (The moment that "salvation" happens...)
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Definition. The history of the various theories of the atonement is made up of various views on the main biblical themes of ransom, redemption, propitiation, substitution, and Christ as moral example.
- The doctrine of atonement is about the at-one-ment of God and sinners as well as heaven and earth. The doctrine of atonement traditionally focuses on the meaning of Christ’s death and how it reconciles God and sinners.
- The atonement is a Trinitarian accomplishment. “Christ crucified” is the heart of the gospel. But while Jesus is central in the doctrine of atonement, we must remember that the one who hung on the cross is the Son of the Father who is empowered by the Spirit.
- The cross is a multidimensional accomplishment. Unfortunately, many people approach the doctrine of atonement feeling like they need to choose between various theories, as if Jesus either paid for our sins or defeated the devil or exemplified sacrificial love.
- Substitution is the heart of atonement. A robust doctrine of atonement will include what Christ accomplished (the outcome) as well as how he accomplished it (the means).
- The Moral Influence Theory. One of the earliest theories for the atonement is the Moral Influence theory, which simply taught that Jesus Christ came and died in order to bring about a positive change to humanity.
- The Ransom Theory. The Ransom Theory of the Atonement is one of the first major theories for the Atonement. It is often held alongside the Moral Influence Theory, and usually deals more with the actual death of Jesus Christ, what it actually means and the effect it has upon humanity.
- Christus Victor. Classically, the Christus Victor theory of Atonement is widely considered to be the dominant theory for most of the historical Christian Church.
- The Satisfaction Theory (Anselm) In the 12th century, Anselm of Canterbury proposed a satisfaction theory for the Atonement. In this theory, Jesus Christ’s death is understood as a death to satisfy the justice of God.
Feb 9, 2024 · Atonement refers to the reconciliation of humanity with God through the sacrificial actions of Jesus Christ. This pivotal doctrine explores the nature of sin, the character of God, and the means by which humanity can be restored to a harmonious relationship with the divine.
Oct 19, 2021 · What Is ‘the Atonement’? As spoken at the outset of this article, the atonement is at its core, a profound demonstration of God’s love. We read: “But God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” . Along with this truth, the atonement also speaks of sacrifice. This sacrifice, i.e., the ...
Apr 25, 2024 · The atonement of Christ, its purpose and what it accomplished, is such a rich subject that volumes have been written about it. This article will simply provide a brief overview of many of the theories that have been put forward at one time or another.
